Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Buggy, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Desert adventure in Dubai with dune buggy camel ride sandboard and evening BBQ

You’ll feel your heart race on a Dubai desert safari as you drive your own dune buggy across golden dunes, try sandboarding, ride camels at sunset, and relax over a full BBQ dinner under lantern-lit skies. With hotel pickup included and local guides who know every sandy curve, this is one of those nights you’ll remember every time you find sand in your shoes.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I was a little nervous when our driver pulled up outside the hotel in that huge 4x4 — my hands were already sweating just thinking about the dune bashing part. But he grinned, said “Ready for some fun?” and somehow I felt like maybe I was. The city faded fast behind us and suddenly it was just endless sand, like someone had shaken out a golden rug all around. The air smelled dry and warm, not sharp but soft somehow. We stopped at this meeting point where the guides handed out helmets and goggles (I looked ridiculous in mine — my friend took a photo I hope never sees daylight).

The dune buggy ride is what really got my heart going. Our guide led the way, weaving through dunes that felt way bigger from the ground than they look on Instagram. Sand sprayed everywhere — it got in my teeth at one point (don’t laugh), but also, I couldn’t stop grinning. There was this moment we paused at the top of a high dune for photos; wind tugged at my shirt and you could see forever in every direction. Someone pointed out tracks from a desert fox below — I didn’t spot it myself, but it made me realize how alive this place is if you pay attention.

After that came the slower stuff: camel rides (my camel’s name was Rami — he kept snorting like he had opinions about us), then henna painting at camp while Arabic tea steamed up my glasses. The food surprised me — smoky grilled chicken, fresh salads, sweet dates — way better than I expected for a buffet in the middle of nowhere. There were dancers too; one guy spun so long under colored lights that I got dizzy just watching him. By then it was dark except for lanterns and stars overhead.

I still think about that quiet walk back to the car at the end. Sand cool underfoot now, everyone tired but kind of glowing from all of it. If you’re wondering whether this Dubai desert safari with dune buggy and BBQ is worth booking… well, let’s just say I’d do it again tomorrow if I could.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural evening

• Pickup from hotel by 4x4
• Safety briefing and gear provided
• Drive dune buggy across desert
• Explore scenic desert views
• Arrive at traditional desert camp
• Enjoy camel riding on dunes
• Get henna painting
• Dine on Arabian BBQ buffet

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or residence in Dubai is included.

How long does the dune buggy ride last?

The self-drive dune buggy experience lasts about 30 minutes.

What activities are part of this desert safari?

You’ll get to go dune bashing by 4x4, drive a buggy, ride camels, try sandboarding, enjoy henna painting and sheesha at camp.

Is dinner provided during the tour?

Yes, there’s a live BBQ with an international buffet dinner served at your table.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?

Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are included in the buffet.

Can children join this Dubai desert safari?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for infants or travelers with certain health conditions.

Is public transportation nearby if needed?

Yes, there are public transportation options near pickup points.

How long does the whole experience take?

The full evening usually lasts several hours including transfers and all activities.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or apartment anywhere in Dubai by 4x4 vehicle with local drivers who know their way around these dunes. You’ll get all safety gear for driving your own dune buggy across open desert before trying sandboarding down high slopes. At camp there’s camel riding (with plenty of photo chances), henna painting by artists who’ve done this forever, shisha on your table if you want it, plus Arabic tea and sweets as a welcome touch. Dinner is served right to your table: BBQ meats alongside international buffet dishes (vegetarian options too). And after all that? Three live entertainment shows under colored lights before you’re driven comfortably back to your starting point.